Razor burn sucks. Here are tips and tricks on how to prevent it and how to treatment it, if you get it after shaving.
Razor burn is the worst. It’s itchy, and it doesn’t exactly enhance your swimsuit. Shaving is fairly quick and inexpensive, and you don’t need to master a specific technique like you do with DIY waxing. However, when you shave, you can end up with an annoying pink rash. Razor burn doesn’t need to be a part of your summer. And you don’t need to give up shaving to make it go away.
(Related: This Hair Removal Product Is Saving My Legs From Razor Burn)
Here are some tips on how to treat razor burn and prevent it from happening:
To prevent razor burn:
1. Don’t shave as soon as you jump in the shower.
Even if you’re pressed for time, don’t start shaving right away. Wash your hair and face first before you shave. The heat and steam will soften up your skin and open up your pores and help the razor glide along smoother.
2. Use a new, sharp razor.
If that razor has been sitting in your shower for as long as you can remember, it’s time for a new one or a new blade. A dull razor is one of the causes of razor burn. Try Venus Divine Sensitive Women’s Razor ($11.09, Gilette), which has moisture strips for sensitive skin. When the moisture strips disappear and you aren’t getting a clean-cut, replace the blade. Also, experiment with single blades. Multi-blade razors are popular, but they might not be right for your skin.
3. Make sure you have a good layer of shaving cream on the area.
Don’t be chintzy with your shaving cream. Trying to get as much use out of the can just increases your chances of razor burn. Coat the area thoroughly. If you want, you can wait a few minutes for it to absorb. If your skin is easily irritated, look for a shaving cream formulated for sensitive skin, such as Sensitive Skin Therapy Shaving Cream ($2.99, Pure Silk). And just say “no” to last-minute dry shaving.
4. Shave in the same direction your hair grows.
Follow the direction that hair grows when you’re shaving. That means if you always shave your legs, starting at your toes and going upwards, you could be giving yourself a razor burn. Oops.
5. Think about the creams and lotions you’re applying post-shave.
Your skin is sensitive after you shave and your scented lotions could be making it flare-up. You can skip the body cream for a day or try an unscented formula or lotion for sensitive skin. Sensitive Anti-Itch, Fragrance-Free Lotion ($9.99, Sarna) is a good option. If you cut yourself or there is broken skin, don’t apply the lotion in that area.